“Can I install TikTok on my phone?” How do you answer a child who asks:

We have prepared content to guide parents on this topic. Are kids really ready for social media? How should you behave towards your child and from what age should children use social media?

First, let’s look at some data.

A survey asked teens where they spend their time online. The first answer of 95% was YouTube TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat continued the rankings.

So how much time do they spend? It is clear that young people spend a lot of time on social media. 35% of young people use the most popular social media platforms uses at least one almost constantly.

Young people were also asked to stop using social media completely. 54% said it would be very difficult to quit social media.

Moreover 1 in 5 children is exposed to cyberbullying. And unfortunately, young people are less likely to report cyberbullying than face-to-face bullying. In this case, the task of parents becomes even more difficult.

When is the right time for social media?

Although social media platforms impose an age limit of 13 years, we all know that this is just a formality. Many children feel left out when they see their peers using social media. They enter the world of social media secretly, without the knowledge of their families.

Children’s brains do not fully develop until they are in their twenties. Prefrontal cortex, i.e. decision making, risk assessment and empathy The area that controls skills develops in adolescence. Social media, on the other hand, can cause distractions for children during this time and also create an addiction to social approval.

Many studies show that young people between the ages of 13 and 16 are influenced by the use of social media. may become depressed and anxiety levels will increase That also appears. The perception of a perfect life makes children feel inadequate.

The time children spend on social media, like all of us, causes insomnia. Less and poor sleep quality also has a negative impact on the development process.

Which age is more suitable?

The age for using social media is 13 years Although it is listed as , experts emphasize that this is independent not only of age, but also of emotional and mental maturity.

It is especially recommended that children between the ages of 7 and 12 stay away from social media. If you are between 13 and 16 years old limited parental controls The use of social media may be considered. During this period, children must of course learn the rules of safe behavior in the digital world.

After the age of 16, most children use social media more independently, but still No attention was paid to overuse.

Let’s draw attention to something else that experts say. Although all these age categories are considered in total, the moment when the children are ready will ability to sense social cues, impulses, Some details, such as their sensitivity to criticism, can also change the age range.

What should parents do?

It is certain that they will one day delve into the world of social media, and that is very difficult to prevent, especially during this period. What about your parents? How should the process be managed?

You can start by talking to your children about the risks and benefits of social media. You should also explain the reason for the boundaries. Moreover, remember that children use their parents as examples and Be careful what you share on your own social media.

Who to talk to online and What information should you not share? You also have to give speeches and teach what is needed. “Let’s go to Instagram and see how acceptable it is what your friends are doing on their accounts.” You can also add conversations like:

Use of social media limit to certain hours can be done, among other things.

Don’t forget this. If you have a child who is depressed algorithm delivers content that suits your mood and anxiety can be activated, and mental status can deteriorate and become distracting.

So does social media benefit children?

Although social media is a place you need to be careful with Experts also mention some of its benefits.

According to the survey results, 58% of children use social media. feel more accepted. 80% say they connect more with their friends by keeping up with what’s going on in their lives, and 67% say it feels good to have people who can support them in tough times.

71% use social media They see it as a medium where they can show their creative side. They are happy with the high probability of receiving news that influences their worldview. Towards digital literacy Having them can support young people’s employment skills.

Ultimately it’s a matter of balance. Social media can provide great opportunities for children, but its disadvantages should not be ignored. Parents in particular play a major role at this point. social media platforms use restriction functions You can provide safer places for your children.

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